Four months after his departure from Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso is poised to make his managerial comeback in the Premier League. The 44-year-old, who was recently reported to have expressed regret over his decision to take the helm at the Bernabeu last summer, is preparing for a new chapter in England.
Since Alonso left Real Madrid, speculation has been rife about a potential return to one of his former playing clubs, Liverpool. The Premier League giants did indeed initiate contact with Bernabeu officials as part of their due diligence for managerial candidates to succeed the embattled Arne Slot. However, it appears they delayed their move too long.
Chelsea, having opened discussions with Alonso earlier this week, have swiftly secured an agreement with the former Real Madrid manager. According to The Athletic, a four-year contract has been finalized, and an announcement regarding his takeover in the summer is anticipated imminently.
Alonso visited Chelsea earlier in the week, and both parties moved quickly to reach an agreement for him to replace Liam Rosenior, who was dismissed in April following a challenging three-month tenure at Stamford Bridge. While former Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez was also a candidate for the London club, they ultimately opted for Alonso.
Real Madrid Also Preparing for Managerial Change
Chelsea is not the only club gearing up for a managerial shift this summer. Alonso’s former club, Real Madrid, is also expected to follow suit. Alvaro Arbeloa is unlikely to remain in his post after a trophy-less period in charge at the Bernabeu. President Florentino Perez is reportedly planning to replace him with Jose Mourinho, who has already given his consent to return to the club 13 years after his initial spell from 2010 to 2013.
